Not Rebelling against a Just Ruler

Beware of opposing those in authority or rising against them, for this brings swift destruction and disgrace in the Hereafter. Even if you both prevailed in your opposition and accomplished what you attempted, that would cause your ruin because of the sins you would incur and the calamities and enormities you would unleash upon the people.

Moreover, the very person whose cause you advanced and whom you trusted would stop at nothing to destroy you and be rid of you. He could never feel secure that you would not do against him what you had done on his behalf, and rise in support of another just as you had risen in support of him.

Adherence to the Muslim Community

Hold fast, therefore, to obedience and remain with the Muslim community, for even an unjust, oppressive ruler is easier on the people than civil strife and the unbridling of hands and tongues.

Patience with an Unjust Ruler

If anything from the one placed in authority over you troubles you, or if harm reaches you from him, be patient, withdraw, and seek some means of averting it through conciliation, forbearance, and tact. Otherwise, leave his land until his attitude toward you improves and his intention once again turns to treating you well.

Beware also of complaining excessively about him or recounting reprehensible reports attributed to him, for that will only increase his resentment and hatred toward you and make him more willing to harm you.

Refraining from Rivalry with the Ruler

Once you have closed these doors against yourselves, begin by refraining from vying with anyone who vies with you and from pressing claims against anyone who presses a claim against you. A person may embark upon such courses believing that they cannot lead him into anything prohibited or entangle him in anything objectionable, but they may ultimately lead